A Few Fantastic Days in Maine

by Melissa McCutcheon, Program Assistant - Independent Living

Our August morning began with pouring rain and 32 anxious passengers crowded under the awning and entryway to the Mead building eagerly awaiting the arrival of our Luxury Motor coach. Staff escorted passengers to the bus, juggling gigantic RiverMead golf umbrellas. The rain didn't stifle the excitement as passengers found their seats.

We arrived right on time at the Muddy Rudder for lunch and were lead to a private room for our group overlooking the marsh in Yarmouth. Lunch and service were excellent! Several enjoyed the fresh haddock and one passenger called the waiter over to send "Compliments to the chef for the best haddock I've had in my entire life." The fact that this passenger has been on this earth for 94 years, makes this statement all the more impressive! Even though we were all stuffed to the brim, no one could pass up the smooth creamy cheese cake topped with fresh Maine blueberries.

The sky grew bright and the sun broke through as we headed off to the beautiful Historic Castle Tucker situated on a knoll overlooking the ​Sheepscot River​ for a guided tour. We learned the story of the prominent shipping family who lived there from 1858 until the end of the twentieth century and how the woman of the house prepared the food.

A little after 4pm we arrived at our hotel, the Hampton Inn Bath and were greeted with fresh made chocolate chip cookies and a fresh fruit punch. Our bags were brought to our rooms and we freshened up for dinner.

A short trip to the famous Brunswick Hotel for dinner. I think all agreed that the decadent lemon cake with fresh Maine blueberries was the highlight of the meal. Does anyone see a trend here…

Our evening continued with a short and welcomed walk across the street to our orchestra seats at the Maine State Music Theater for a lively, toe tapping, top notch performance of Singing in the Rain. …and yes, it rained on stage!

After a good night's rest and a hot breakfast at the hotel we were off to the nearby Maine Maritime Museum. The weather couldn't have been more perfect! Beautiful blue sky and sunshine with the light sea side breeze. Our tour guide told us the stories of the picturesque Maine shipyard.

We boarded the bus late morning and took in the beauty of the winding coastline and picturesque views as we meandered to Bailey Island. Lunch was at Cook's Lobster House surrounded on 3 sides by water with a water view from every seat.We socialized and enjoyed Cook's Famous Lobster Roll and… blueberry cake for dessert. What a pleasure to visit Maine during blueberry season!

After lunch folks relaxed in Adirondack chairs, watching the boats come in and out or walked on the beach collecting shells. Some kindred spirits even engaged in a rock skipping contest while waiting for the ferry to come in to dock. We boarded the Casco Bay Ferry for a captivating tour of the many small islands sprinkling the bay on our excursion from Bailey Island to Old Port. This scenic summer cruise was certainly a highlight of the trip and the salty sea air was good for the soul.

We returned to RiverMead right around dinner time refreshed from this fantastic trip and unforgettable time!